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Tuesday, 11 June 2013

The Trouble With Bear Hugs – A Story About Asthma

The
Trouble With Bear Hugs – A Story About Asthma by Kym Latter and Cassie Stroud

HB
RRP $16.75

ISBN
– 978-0-9873747-0-7

Reviewed
by Emma Cameron

Though written to help
explain what asthma can be like and how easily it can be dealt with, this story
is well told and never comes across as a lesson. From the sweet, quirky title
to the gorgeous and whimsical illustrations it’s sure to help very young
readers see asthma simply is a condition that doesn’t make someone who has it
feel good when an attack occurs, and that taking uncomplicated and appropriate
action will have them feeling better quickly.

The narrative is
straightforward, introducing readers to Lulu by telling them what sorts of
things she likes; liquorice, running in the garden, her chickens and wearing
strange things on her head (including one of her chickens). Rather than viewing
her as an asthma sufferer, they see her as a child not unlike themselves.

When they witness her suffering
from a giant bear hug they learn that asthma hurts her chest, stops her
breathing in and makes her feel like she has no more puff left. She tells Poppa
how she feels and that the giant bear just won’t let go. Poppa recognises
what’s happening and runs to the shed, quickly returning with what Lulu
recognises as “My puffer!” Poppa gets her to inhale and exhale, counting as she
does so. Before long the bear becomes smaller and Lulu feels fine again, ready
to run and play as normal.

Bright, colourful and well
thought out illustrations tone down the distressing elements of a giant bear
hug, ensuring young readers are likely to feel wonder rather than discomfort,
thereby allowing them to maintain an inquisitive open mind to help the message
enter. The analogy of the bear hug works perfectly.

In addition to explaining
what an asthma attack feels like to those who don’t suffer it, the story also
provides sufferers with helpful reminders of what to look out for and how to
communicate an attack to those who can help them. The book’s simple directions
and reassuring message are endorsed by Asthma Australia and may be purchased by
visiting www.asthmapeeps.com .